Because we hear again and again that owners of affected dogs are concerned about the reputation of their breeder or stud dog owner when dealing with the question of a publication of their dog in
this context, we would like to formulate a small statement in this regard:

First of all, we understand the fear that the publication of a sick dog (and with it its parents) could possibly be accompanied by damage to the breeder or stud dog owner.

However, we are personally convinced that a breeder/stud dog owner who is open and honest in dealing with this subject will not suffer any lasting harm. On the contrary, if he/she treats
this subject with openness and honesty, he/she will be identified as a really committed breeder/stud dog owner and that would be more of an argument FOR this breeder/stud dog owner for many puppy
buyers. That's how we have found out at least so far, if we talked to Labrador owners or interested people.

If a breeder/stud dog owner does not approach this subject with openness and honesty, we would honestly not give much thought to his or her potential loss.

Furthermore, we would like to make it clear once again that we do not condemn any dog or breeder/stud dog owner as guilty! We only collect data from which it may be possible to draw conclusions
with regard to potential genetics.

In our opinion, one of the most important benefits of the publication of affected dogs and their parents is the urgently needed support of the education work:

On the one hand, the publications underline the relevance of this topic and its need to explore it with each new case. And this is really important in order to prevent the already existing
research on this from potentially going to waste at some point.

On the other hand, a publication of affected dogs also helps breeders/stud dog owners themselves in their decision making in the planning of new breedings as well as informed puppy buyers in the
search for a suitable breeder.

So if we are asked whether the publication of affected dogs is an important matter, we will answer without reservation (and objectively): YES! It is probably
even the most important thing (after the treatment of the dog concerned!), because it is the basis for the clarification, the positive change and the (hopefully) avoidance of further cases in the
future! This is what we believe in and we have been fighting for over 4.5 years.

If you agree with us, please support our work by informing us about your dogs' heart disease and/or by sharing our homepage and also our Facebook page with all your Labrador friends.